This week at the 2012 Intermot Motorcycle Show in Cologne, Germany, Triumph marked 110 years in the bike-building biz with the unveil of its 2013 Street Triple and Street Triple R, two mid-size performers that beg to be modded and given that personal touch, SSB style. Most noticeable in the new design is the absence of the under seat exhaust, replaced by a new low-mount configuration. As much as we love undertails, this is a welcome change on the Triumph naked bike; gone is that short stubby look replaced instead by a more streamlined profile with improved weight distribution.
Shedding 13-pounds over previous models ups the power-to-weight ratio favorably with the 675cc engine producing a claimed 105 HP and 50 LB.-FT. of torque. Both feature an all-new chassis with revised geometry for improved handling, agility and precision. A new aluminum beam twin-spar frame combines with a new two-piece die cast rear subframe which is lighter thanks to fewer pieces and fewer frame welds. Front suspension consists of KYB 41mm USD forks with stopping power provided by dual 310mm floating discs and Nissin two-piston sliding calipers. ABS is standard and fully switchable to offer riders the absolute best setup for their riding requirements. The rear monoshock is adjustable for preload and rebound damping.
The new Street Triple comes with high-level equipment standard including an engine immobilizer with further security available such as the Triumph D lock accessory that you can store under the seat. LCD digital readout includes a built-in lap timer, programmable gear change lights, fuel gauge, clock and gear indicator, as well as a large tach and digital speedo. The unit is also able to display front and rear tire pressures when the optional TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is fitted. The Street Triple has three metallic color options for 2013: Phantom Black, Crystal White and Caribbean Blue. Visually, the R model adds a red rear subframe, red pinstripe to the wheels and a red-detailed radiator shroud cut with the R logo; a Matte Graphite replaces the standard model blue.
What you can’t find in the aftermarket, Triumph’s genuine accessories include color-matched fly screens, belly pans and seat cowls, while Arrow Special Parts has developed a lightweight slip-on silencer for improved performance and more weight reduction. Other key accessories include stylish bar-end mirrors, CNC machined clutch and brake levers and a ‘plug and play’ quick shifter that can be fitted to the Street Triple in quickly. Full pricing information will be confirmed in late October 2012, and the first bikes are scheduled to arrive in North American Triumph dealerships in January 2013.